French-Argentine artist Pablo Reinoso has been awarded the Knight's Insignia of the Légion d'Honneur, France's highest civilian distinction, during a ceremony held at the Élysée Palace on 26 November 2025. The honour was presented by President Emmanuel Macron in the presence of Brigitte Macron and the artist's family.
The distinction recognises Reinoso's outstanding contribution to contemporary art and acknowledges the breadth of his artistic practice, as well as his enduring relationship with France and its republican values.
The award also reflects Reinoso's ongoing dialogue with the Élysée Palace, initiated with the installation of Racines de France (2016) and continued with Fleuves de France (2024). Situated on the Palace's South Terrace and in the Cour d'Honneur respectively, the two monumental sculptures symbolically frame the main entrances to one of France's most significant institutions.
Together, these permanent installations embody the values of the French Republic through themes of diversity, inclusivity and openness. In dialogue with the Palace's architecture and history, they demonstrate Reinoso's ability to create works that engage with public space while inviting reflection on identity, memory and shared cultural heritage.
